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Günther Felßner: CSU Candidate Withdraws Amidst Protests
Günther Felßner, the CSU's preferred candidate for German Federal Minister of Agriculture, has surprisingly withdrawn his candidacy. This unexpected decision, announced March 25th, 2025, follows intense protests from environmental and animal rights activists targeting Felßner and his farm.
Threats and Protests Lead to Withdrawal
Felßner cited threats against his family as the primary reason for his withdrawal. A recent protest by "Animal Rebellion" activists on his farm, involving trespassing and alleged threats against his wife, escalated the situation. While Felßner described himself as open to dialogue, he stated that the level of threats and harassment crossed a line, leaving his wife fearing for her safety.
CSU and Söder React
CSU leader Markus Söder expressed regret over Felßner's decision, praising him as an "excellent specialist and person." However, the incident sparked outrage amongst CSU members, with Söder himself condemning the "hatred, agitation, and radicalism" of the activists. The search for a new candidate for the Ministry of Agriculture is now underway.
Controversy Surrounding Felßner
Prior to the protests, Felßner faced criticism for past environmental violations and his perceived pro-industry stance on agricultural policies. Online petitions calling for his rejection as Minister gained traction, highlighting concerns over his environmental record and his approach to climate change and biodiversity.
The Future of the Agricultural Ministry
The CSU remains committed to securing the Agricultural Ministry in the new government. While the party seeks a replacement candidate, the events surrounding Felßner's withdrawal underscore the increasingly polarized debate surrounding agricultural practices and environmental concerns in Germany.
